http://www.doshihouse.com This Third Ward coffeehouse/art space also offers breakfast, lunch and dinner — albeit in limited portions. Breakfast at Doshi features pastries and other goods from local bakers, while lunch offers a small selection of paninis, soups and salads. Dinner is one filling, vegetarian meal per night — a Thai red curry one night or Indian butter "chicken" the next — and is very inexpensive. Fresh juices and smoothies are available throughout the day, and the cozy space invites you to kick back, relax and enjoy the calm, quiet atmosphere. More >>

Dot Coffee Shop may not share ownership with the infamous Kirby House of Pies, but if restaurants could be related, they'd still be cousins. Though the location near 45 and the South Loop brings a slight different crowd, the food is also mostly heavy, traditional American fare (emphasis on breakfast), and there's still a good chance you'll get some good people-watching done if you eat late at night. Unlike similar diner-style places, you get a complimentary bread basket to start things off. More >>